Austin Link, Co-founder and CEO of Starfish Space, discusses the state of the space industry, the emergence of startups, and the innovative 'space servicing' technology created by Starfish Space. The Otter spacecraft enables satellite repositioning and disposal, unlocking revenue and preventing space debris. The conversation touches on autonomous navigation software, electric propulsion, and the future of the space industry.
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Quick takeaways
Space industry offers diverse value propositions, from satellite services to observation missions.
Recent technological advancements revolutionize space operations, driving cost reductions and novel capabilities.
Small teams like Starfish Space drive innovation in satellite design, reshaping traditional paradigms.
Deep dives
The Diverse Value Propositions of Space Activities
Space activities today offer a diverse range of value propositions, from commercial services like satellite TV, radio, and internet, to observation missions with scientific objectives such as the James Webb telescope. Commercially, emerging markets like satellite internet are gaining prominence, exemplified by companies like Starlink. Additionally, support for government initiatives, like NASA and Space Force, plays a key role in the space ecosystem.
Technological Advancements Redefining Space Capabilities
Recent technological advancements have revolutionized space operations, enabling novel capabilities and cost reductions. Software-driven innovations, like autonomous spacecraft with electric propulsion for satellite maneuvering, are reshaping mission approaches. These innovations leverage advanced simulations, cloud infrastructure, and precise physics models to enhance satellite functionalities and enable intricate space maneuvers like docking with minimal thrusters.
Transformative Impact of Small Teams in the Space Industry
The evolution of the space industry showcases the transformative impact of small teams and new space companies. With about 50 team members at Starfish Space, groundbreaking projects, like the OtterPup satellite program, exemplify rapid, lean development cycles. Leveraging in-house expertise and strategic vendor collaborations, small teams like Starfish Space drive innovation in satellite design, guidance systems, and mission execution, reshaping traditional paradigms.
Increasing Demand for Rockets and Space Industry Innovations
The podcast discusses the growing demand for rockets, emphasizing the need for more rocket production to meet various industry needs. Highlighting SpaceX's success with its Starlink constellation, projected to reach $6 billion in revenue by 2024 from zero a few years back, underscores the industry's expanding potential. In addition, the episode explores the role of Earth observation data and innovative space technologies, such as manufacturing materials in space and leveraging moon resources, in driving value creation.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Space Industry
The discussion delves into the challenges and opportunities in the space industry, touching on the complexities of engaging government customers and the unique considerations for hardware or deep tech companies. Emphasizing the importance of de-risking technological innovations and navigating government procurement processes, the episode stresses the significance of talent acquisition and skill development to fuel future space industry growth and exploration.
The space industry is one of the most fascinating areas of technology in 2024. The reduction in launch costs and proliferation of satellites make all kinds of new businesses possible. Today we are joined by Austin Link, the co-founder and CEO of Starfish Space (where Ben and PSL Ventures are investors!). Austin lays out the state of the space industry today, particularly as it pertains to startups. He and Ben explore what it takes to build a space company, then gets into the specifics of what Starfish Space is building.
Starfish Space has created a spacecraft to dock with and reposition satellites. This "space servicing" technology enables their customers to extend the usable lifetime of satellites (unlocking tens of millions of dollars in revenue), or safely dispose of aging satellites to avoid space debris. Starfish's product, the "Otter", uses autonomous navigation software and electric propulsion to move through space and dock with customers' satellites.
If you're into physics, outer space, or any sort of "hard tech", tune in!